Mum is Finally Free! Pensioner Detained by ICE in US Returns to France
A French woman in her eighties, who faced detention at an immigration enforcement center in the United States, has successfully returned to France, as confirmed by the country’s foreign minister.
Background on Marie-Thérèse’s Journey
– Name: Marie-Thérèse
– Origin: Nantes, France
– Relocation: Moved to the US after marrying her long-lost love, Billy, an American man who passed away in January.
Detention and Release
Her son raised concerns when Marie-Thérèse was arrested in Anniston, Alabama, earlier this month. He expressed immense relief upon her release, stating, Mum is finally free!
– Confirmation: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced her safe return to France on Friday morning, expressing satisfaction with her release.
– Condition Upon Return: According to reports from The New York Times, Marie-Thérèse arrived at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport still dressed in a stained and tattered prison uniform, showing signs of shock and exhaustion after her ordeal.
Immigration Issues
The US Department of Homeland Security reported that Marie-Thérèse, classified as an illegal alien, entered the country in June 2025 but had overstayed her 90-day visa.
– Awaiting Green Card: Contrary to this classification, her son clarified that she was in the process of securing a green card when detained.
– Love Story: Marie-Thérèse met Billy in the 1960s at a NATO base in Saint-Nazaire. They rekindled their romance in 2010 after decades of separation, ultimately marrying in 2022.
Legal Troubles and Arrest
After Billy’s unexpected death, Marie-Thérèse’s immigration status became uncertain. Tensions escalated over Billy’s inheritance, leading to disputes with one of his sons.
– Allegations of Intimidation: Her son reported that Billy’s son threatened and intimidated Marie-Thérèse, even going as far as cutting off her utilities.
– Detainment: Despite hiring a lawyer for assistance, Marie-Thérèse was arrested by ICE just before her scheduled hearing. Her son highlighted the severity of her treatment, noting, They handcuffed her hands and feet like she was a dangerous criminal.
Concerns Over ICE Practices
Since the onset of former President Donald Trump’s second term, ICE has been at the forefront of a mass deportation strategy, significantly expanding its budget and mission to remove undocumented immigrants.
– Official Response: In light of her case, Barrot commented on the methods used by ICE, stating they were not necessarily in line with those currently in force and acceptable to us, indicating deeper concerns about the treatment of detainees.
Conclusion
Marie-Thérèse’s return to France marks a significant relief for her family and highlights ongoing issues surrounding immigration policies in the United States. Her journey underscores the complexities immigrants face in navigating the legal system while seeking a better life. With her homecoming, many hope for improvements in how immigration enforcement operates, ensuring that human dignity remains a priority.